The Faces were a British rock band that made waves in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born from the ashes of the Small Faces after the departure of lead singer Steve Marriott, the remaining members—Ronnie Lane (bass guitar), Ian McLagan (keyboards), and Kenney Jones (drums)—teamed up with Rod Stewart (vocals) and Ronnie Wood (guitar) from The Jeff Beck Group. The Faces are celebrated for their raw, energetic sound and electrifying live performances, blending rock, blues, and soul influences. Their notable albums include First Step (1970), A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse (1971), and Ooh La La (1973). Songs like “Stay with Me” and “Ooh La La” are rock classics. Although the band disbanded in 1975, Stewart and Wood achieved further success in their solo careers and with The Rolling Stones, respectively.

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The Faces Songs: An Iconic Legacy

The Faces left an indelible mark on rock music with their distinctive style and memorable hits. Let’s dive into the 10 best The Faces songs of all time, showcasing their incredible journey and musical evolution.

1. Ooh La La

“Ooh La La,” from the 1973 album of the same name, is a standout among The Faces songs. Written by Ronnie Lane and Ronnie Wood, this track is notable for its reflective lyrics and catchy melody. Uniquely, “Ooh La La” features Wood on lead vocals instead of Rod Stewart. The song’s lyrics speak to the wisdom gained with age, famously expressing, “I wish that I knew what I know now, when I was younger.” Despite its initial modest success, “Ooh La La” has become one of The Faces’ most enduring songs, cherished for its timeless message and folksy charm.

2. Stay With Me

“Stay With Me” stands as one of the most iconic The Faces songs, released in 1971 on their album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse. Written by Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, this track is a quintessential rock anthem. Stewart’s gritty vocals and Wood’s unforgettable guitar riff make it an enduring classic. The song’s raw energy and catchy chorus propelled it to the top 20 in both the UK and US charts. The lyrics narrate a cheeky story of a one-night stand, with the protagonist asking his lover to leave in the morning. “Stay With Me” remains a staple in Stewart’s solo performances, celebrated for its quintessential 1970s rock sound.

3. Cindy Incidentally

“Cindy Incidentally,” from the 1973 album Ooh La La, is a classic rock track that showcases the band’s signature blend of rock and roll with soulful, bluesy undertones. Rod Stewart’s raspy, emotive vocals lead the song, complemented by Ronnie Wood’s catchy guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s vibrant keyboard work. The lyrics tell a story of a man encouraging a woman named Cindy to seize her independence and leave her troubles behind. With its upbeat tempo and infectious melody, “Cindy Incidentally” captures the playful, free-spirited essence of The Faces, making it a standout track in their catalog.

4. Maybe I’m Amazed

Originally a Paul McCartney solo track, “Maybe I’m Amazed” was also famously covered by The Faces, bringing their unique rock flair to this heartfelt ballad. The Faces’ version, known for its raw, soulful interpretation, features Rod Stewart’s powerful vocals and Ronnie Wood’s emotive guitar playing. This cover version showcases The Faces’ ability to take a song and infuse it with their own distinctive energy, making it a beloved part of their live performances and a standout in their discography.

5. Pool Hall Richard

“Pool Hall Richard,” a single released in 1973, captures the band’s signature blend of rock and rhythm and blues. Written by Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood, the song tells the story of a brash, confident pool hustler named Richard. The track is characterized by energetic guitar work, driving rhythms, and Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals. Though not as widely known as some of their other hits, “Pool Hall Richard” showcases The Faces’ dynamic musicianship and storytelling prowess, remaining a favorite among dedicated fans.

6. Had Me a Real Good Time

“Had Me a Real Good Time,” from the 1971 album Long Player, is a rollicking, high-energy track that epitomizes The Faces’ raw rock and roll spirit. Led by Rod Stewart’s distinctive raspy vocals, the song features Ronnie Wood’s gritty guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s lively keyboard playing. The lyrics capture the essence of carefree fun and youthful exuberance, recounting a night of revelry and enjoyment. With its upbeat tempo, infectious chorus, and spirited instrumentation, “Had Me a Real Good Time” is a testament to The Faces’ ability to create music that is both loose and full of life, resonating with fans and capturing the vibe of early 70s rock.

7. Too Bad

“Too Bad,” from the 1971 album Long Player, exemplifies The Faces’ energetic and gritty rock ‘n’ roll style. Written by Rod Stewart and Ronnie Lane, the track features Stewart’s trademark raspy vocals and the band’s lively instrumentation, including Ronnie Wood’s dynamic guitar work. The lyrics convey a sense of rebelliousness and nonchalance, reflecting the band’s carefree attitude towards life and music. “Too Bad” became a popular track among fans and is remembered for its infectious groove and raw, unfiltered sound characteristic of The Faces’ early work.

8. Miss Judy’s Farm

“Miss Judy’s Farm,” from the 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, is a gritty, blues-infused rock track that showcases The Faces’ energetic and unpolished style. Rod Stewart’s powerful, gravelly vocals drive the song, while Ronnie Wood’s raw guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s boisterous keyboard work provide a solid musical foundation. The lyrics tell the story of a woman named Miss Judy and the mischievous antics on her farm. With its infectious rhythm, spirited performance, and rebellious attitude, “Miss Judy’s Farm” exemplifies The Faces’ ability to blend rock and roll with a touch of humor and storytelling.

9. Around the Plynth

“Around the Plynth,” from the 1970 album First Step, showcases The Faces’ blend of rock, blues, and soul influences. Written by Ronnie Lane and Ronnie Wood, the track features Rod Stewart’s charismatic vocals and Ronnie Wood’s distinctive guitar playing, accompanied by Ian McLagan’s organ and Kenney Jones’s solid drumming. The song’s lyrics reflect a sense of wanderlust and adventure, with its title possibly referencing a platform or pedestal (“plynth”) around which the protagonist’s journey unfolds. “Around the Plynth” is appreciated for its soulful groove and the band’s tight musical chemistry, highlighting their early collaborative spirit.

10. You’re So Rude

“You’re So Rude,” featured on the 1971 album A Nod Is As Good As a Wink… to a Blind Horse, is a playful and cheeky rock song that highlights The Faces’ knack for storytelling and humor. With Ronnie Lane taking lead vocals, the song details a mischievous and somewhat scandalous encounter, narrated with a sense of wit and irreverence. The track is driven by a lively rhythm, featuring Ronnie Wood’s gritty guitar riffs and Ian McLagan’s vibrant keyboard work. “You’re So Rude” captures the essence of The Faces’ rowdy, carefree spirit, making it a memorable and entertaining part of their discography.

Notable Other Songs by The Faces

In addition to their most celebrated hits, The Faces have an impressive catalog of other notable songs that capture their distinctive sound and musical prowess. Here are some additional tracks that exemplify the band’s talent and versatility:

“Debris” – A poignant song written by Ronnie Lane, known for its introspective lyrics and melodic charm.
“Flying” – A track from their debut album First Step, showcasing their early rock and blues influences.
“Three Button Hand Me Down” – A lively, upbeat song that captures the band’s playful and energetic style.
“Sweet Lady Mary” – A ballad with a heartfelt performance from Rod Stewart and beautiful instrumentation.
“Love Lives Here” – A soulful track that highlights the band’s ability to blend rock with emotional depth.
“Glad and Sorry” – Another Ronnie Lane composition, known for its reflective lyrics and gentle melody.
“Silicone Grown” – A rock song with catchy riffs and Rod Stewart’s distinctive vocals.
“Richmond” – A lesser-known gem featuring Ronnie Lane’s evocative songwriting and vocal delivery.
“Bad ‘n’ Ruin” – A dynamic track with powerful vocals and strong instrumental arrangements.
“Wicked Messenger” – A Bob Dylan cover that The Faces made their own with their unique interpretation.

These tracks, along with their biggest hits, showcase The Faces’ versatility and enduring influence in the rock music scene.

The Faces Songs: A Lasting Influence

The Faces’ music has endured through the decades, influencing countless artists and delighting generations of rock fans. Their blend of raw energy, soulful melodies, and unforgettable performances ensure that their songs remain timeless classics. As we revisit these 10 best The Faces songs, we celebrate the legacy of a band that left an indelible mark on rock music history.

The Faces may have disbanded, but their music continues to inspire and resonate, a testament to their enduring impact on the world of rock and roll. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, these songs offer a glimpse into the magic that made The Faces one of the most beloved rock bands of their time.